The New Testament, YMCA–American Navy Edition

The United States entered World War I in April 1917. In the ensuing months, millions of Americans volunteered for the armed services. Millions more would be drafted. Organizations such as the Young Men’s Christian Association responded to this call to arms by producing millions of Bibles, or portions of the Bible such as this New Testament, and distributing them to soldiers and sailors. As in previous wars, these organizations believed Bible study would be essential to strengthening the resolve, as well as the morals, of military personnel as they entered the theater of war. The YMCA printed this New Testament for the American Navy. It includes a message from President Woodrow Wilson.

Printed in 1917 by the Young Men’s Christian Association, London. Acquired by the 2000s by Rusty Maisel, private collector, Texas; Privately purchased in 2010 by Green Collection, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Donated in 2016 to National Christian Foundation (later The Signatry) under the curatorial care of Museum of the Bible, Washington, DC.